Collar rot on MOC Star Trek figures

[haggis]

I have MOC MEGO Spock and Uhura figures and I've noticed that, since the last time I looked at them, there has been some action going on in the collar area of their respective shirts. It almost looks like a moldy-type of thing all around Spock's collar, a greyish fluff of sorts. The card that Spock is on is not mint so I'm wondering if at some point it may have gotten a bit wet. The Uhura card is in great condition and there is only a bit on her collar. Any thoughts? Helpful advice would be appreciated.

[Hotfoot]

Sounds like they may be in a high humidity area. Allowing mold to take hold?

[haggis]

They've been in my possession for about a year and a half. They're kept in a cool dry room with all of my non-moldy stuff...so I have to assume it started before I bought them. Thanks for your thoughts.

[Sideshow Spock]

I've seen a lot of this on my MIB Playmates 9" cloth Trek figures. Their storage environment was far from ideal, and many have the same mold issues now as you mention. Some more than others.

Not sure there's anything to be done about it, short of opening them up and cleaning.

[Seeker]

I had that same problem. I threw some silica packs. Those toss away things you find packaged in alot of stuff to absorb moisture and the next time I checked the mold was gone.

I kept them in a cardboard comic box in my closet.

[jemboy2004]

where can you buy the silica packs? I'd like to get some to put with my stuff to keep it safe from mold.

[Seeker]

Pretty much buy anything at Walmart. Chances are you'll find several on the floor. Everytime I open a box be it clothes ,shoes, housewears 2 or 3 fall out. I work there and end up tossing out tons every night.

[haggis]

Thanks for the helpful tips. I'm going to give the silica a shot as I don't really want to open up a carded MEGO figure at this stage in the game.